* Protection and Vulnerability: The jacket represents both protection and vulnerability for Andy. It shields him from the cold, literally and figuratively, as he lies injured on the sidewalk. However, it also serves as a symbol of his gang affiliation, making him a target for rival gangs. The fact that he is stripped of his jacket before he dies signifies the loss of his identity and his vulnerability in the face of death.
* Identity and Belonging: The jacket is a symbol of Andy's belonging to the Warriors gang. It is a visual marker of his identity and loyalty. Losing his jacket is a symbolic loss of his connection to his gang and his place in the world.
* Social Status and Power: In the context of the story, the jacket represents Andy's position in the social hierarchy of the gangs. The fact that he is stripped of it highlights the brutality of the gang warfare and the power imbalance that exists between different groups.
* Mortality and Loss: The jacket is also a symbol of Andy's mortality. His jacket represents his life, and as he is stripped of it, it represents his life being stripped away.
Ultimately, the jacket serves as a powerful symbol of Andy's journey from life to death, highlighting his vulnerability, loss of identity, and the brutal realities of gang warfare. The stripping of his jacket is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the consequences of violence.